Depression in Children

What is depression?

It is normal and healthy to react with sadness to challenges in life to experience sadness, and most of us experience this from time to time. However, if these feelings intensify (feeling helpless, hopeless, or worthless), last for many days to weeks, and keep us from living our lives, it may be more than sadness. It may be clinical depression.

Depression can manifest in children in different ways and can manifest differently than it does in adults. The disorder also has physiological symptoms that should be checked out with your child’s pediatrician to rule out an underlying medical condition. But what does depression look like in children? Some general symptoms can include;

·         Irritable or sad mood or feeling numb

·         Is cranky or tearful

·         No longer enjoys activities and interests that use to bring joy

·         Changes in weight (increase or decrease)

·         Changes in sleep (too much or too little)

·         Isolates (no longer wants to spend time with family/friends)

·         Fatigue – unable to complete simple tasks due to lack of energy

·         Low self-esteem, feeling worthless, feeling guilty

·         Trouble concentrating, difficulty in making decisions

·         Change in school performance/poor school performance

·         Little or no interest or hope about the future

·         Experiences aches or pains without physical cause

·         Engages in self-harm (purposefully attempting to hurt self)

o   Cutting, scratching, head banging, burning

·         Thoughts of death, dying, suicide

As a caregiver it can be scary to watch a child experience depression. However there is help and support. When should a caregiver seek professional help for their child? Any actions of self-harm or talk of suicide should be taken seriously right away. Help should also be sought when symptoms interfere with everyday activities.

There are many different types of therapies and treatment for depression and the first step is to see a trained therapist. And you as the caregiver can also help your child work through depression as well. Some tips to help a depressed child include;

·         Show your child love, empathy, and respect

·         Listen to their needs and feelings and validate their experience

·         Schedule bonding time together outside of the home such as a walk or going to the park

·         Encourage routine with regular meals, regular/consistent sleep, regular hygiene routines

·         Help your child connect to a support system through school clubs, after school activities, promoting play dates

Depression can cause children to feel irritable, grumpy, or closed off and it can be easy for caregivers to become frustrated or angry. You as a caregiver may want to “fix” or put a stop to depression immediately. Try to stay patient and understanding.  A positive and supportive relationship with a caregiver and proper supports, a child can increase their resiliency and thrive once again.